If you're craving a taste of Greece, look no further than this delightful Greek Spinach Pie, also known as Spanakopita! With its flaky layers of phyllo pastry enveloping a savory filling of fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic garlic, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, Spanakopita is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo pastry
- 1 lb fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your spanakopita bakes evenly and achieves a nice golden color.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume. If using fresh spinach, ensure it is fully wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and excess moisture is squeezed out.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach mixture cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese and the three eggs to the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Take the package of phyllo pastry out of the refrigerator and carefully unroll it. Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out.
- Brush a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches) with olive oil. Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry in the dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush this layer lightly with olive oil.
- Layer another sheet of phyllo pastry on top of the first, brushing it with olive oil again. Repeat this process until you have about 6-8 layers of phyllo in the dish.
- Once the layers are prepared, spoon the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the phyllo base.
- Fold the overhanging edges of the phyllo over the filling. Then, layer more phyllo sheets on top of the filling, brushing each layer with olive oil as before. Use about 6-8 additional layers for the top.
- Once the final layer is in place, use a sharp knife to cut the spanakopita into squares or diamond shapes. This will make it easier to serve after baking.
- Brush the top layer of phyllo with a little more olive oil to help it achieve a golden brown color while baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Once baked, remove the spanakopita from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Serve the spanakopita with a side of Greek yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Greek spinach pie!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the spinach filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and assemble the pie when you're ready to bake.
- Phyllo Handling: Phyllo pastry can dry out quickly, so keep it covered with a damp kitchen towel while you work. This will ensure it remains pliable and easy to layer.
- Layering Technique: For the best texture, don't skimp on the olive oil between phyllo layers. It helps create that irresistible crispiness that makes Spanakopita so addictive!
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like herbs (dill, parsley) or even a bit of nutmeg for an extra flavor boost. Experiment to find your perfect blend!
- Serving Suggestions: Spanakopita pairs beautifully with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a side salad. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing touch.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 301kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg
